Gabe Mirkin, M.D.
We know that regular exercise helps to prevent heart
attacks and strokes. Researchers at Michigan State recently
showed that high-intensity exercise may prevent these diseases
more effectively than low intensity exercise (Thrombosis
Research, August 2006).
Most heart attacks and strokes occur when plaques
lining the arteries break off and pass down the artery to form a
clot that completely blocks the flow of blood to the heart or brain.
Intense exercise helped prevent clotting by increasing tissue
plasminogen activator and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 far
more than low-intensity exercise did. Other studies show that
vigorous exercise also more effective in helping people lose
weight. However, vigorous exercise can precipitate heart attacks
and strokes, so it’s a good idea to get a stress electrocardiogram
before you start a new exercise program or increase the intensity
of your current regimen. If your doctor agrees, gradually work up
to the point where you can increase the intensity of your
workouts once or twice a week.
January 15, 2007